Scarborough is preparing to mark a major milestone in its history, with a year-long programme of events planned to celebrate 400 years since the town became a spa resort.
The anniversary will be marked with exhibitions, arts and cultural events, family activities and community-led projects taking place throughout the year. A new public sculpture is also set to be commissioned and installed near Scarborough Spa, creating a lasting reminder of the town’s spa heritage.
The celebrations are being coordinated by North Yorkshire Council alongside local organisations to reflect on Scarborough’s past while highlighting its role as a popular seaside destination today.
North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for arts and culture, Cllr Simon Myers, said: “There is a varied programme of events that is being planned which will mark this significant milestone in Scarborough’s history. Our communities along the coast will be able to take part and enjoy all that is on offer at what has become one of Britain’s most cherished seaside resorts over the past four centuries.”
Tourism already plays a major role in the local economy, generating almost £580 million a year in Scarborough alone. Businesses across the town and wider coast are being encouraged to get involved by hosting their own events as part of the celebrations.
Cllr Mark Crane, the council’s executive member for open to business, said: “This is a moment to celebrate Scarborough’s long and rich history, and we would encourage businesses to get involved to help us mark the anniversary. This is a chance for communities to celebrate the town and mark such an important moment, as well as encouraging visitors to come and see what makes Scarborough such a special place.”
Among the highlights planned is a new exhibition at Scarborough Art Gallery, Dive In, opening in September, which will explore the town’s evolution since the discovery of its spa waters in 1626. A giant deckchair trail is also planned for the summer holidays, alongside illuminated installations and a community lantern parade later in the year.
Scarborough’s annual events, including Seafest, Armed Forces Day and the Scarborough Fair programme, will also form part of the anniversary year.
Further details will be published on the Visit North Yorkshire website as the programme develops.
